Photovoltaics as a Line Extension Alternative

The first three items are intended for people with a need for electric power at a remote location where a utility line extension may be cost prohibitive. In situations like this, one possible alternative to a line extensions is an off-grid photovoltaic (PV) power system. For purposes of comparison it is helpful to understand the life cycle costs, lifestyle impacts, and expansion possibilities of a PV system. Since these documents were originally written about ten years ago for potential utility customers in Arizona, the numbers in the economic analyses are considerably different than those one would use today in an analysis in Vermont. Yet much of the general information is still timely and even the economic analyses are useful to the extent that they broadly outline how to compare costs.

The fourth item is a 34-image slideshow of a gridless urban house in the midwest. It integrates energy efficient equipment, insulation, solar hot water, photovoltaics, power saving electronics, and environmental design features into a modern, energy-savvy home.

The Solar Electric Option (Instead of a Power Line Extension) (PDF 1 MB)
An overview of how PV technology works, how PV systems are designed, safety issues, three examples of remote applications, and a glossary of terms. Sixteen pages. Published jointly by the Arizona Corporation Commission and the Arizona Department of Commerce Energy Office.

Staff Guidelines on Photovoltaics Versus Line Extensions (PDF 219 KB)
An explanation of three guidelines one utility used to determine whether a PV systems would be cheaper than a line extension over thirty years (overhead single phase, underground single phase, three phase underground). Seven pages. Published by the Arizona Corporation Commission's Utility Division.

Photovoltaics Versus Line Extensions: Creating Informed Customer Choices (PDF 822 KB)
Discusses implications for service quality and compares the economics of PV versus line extensions. Twenty eight pages. By David Berry and Rober Gray, Utilities Division, Arizona Corporation Commission.

The Urban Gridless Home Tour
Web-based slideshow of a modern, gridless home in Kansas.